24
December
2021
|
09:15 AM
America/New_York

Community Rallies Around Local Chiropractor’s Project To Give Back to Carilion Children’s for the Holidays

DrHolly Drive5

Dr. Holly Welty-Miller, a chiropractor based in Pulaski, Va., is normally the one delivering care to patients. The last couple of years, however, she began her own journey as a patient in her battle against cancer. Throughout her treatment, she has continued working, bolstered by the support of her patients.

“I'm not sure a day goes by that someone doesn't ask me if there’s there anything that they can do for me," said Dr. Holly. “My answer is simply pray – pray for those that have to fight this battle.”

Heading into the holiday season, Dr. Holly was inspired by the ongoing support from her community and wanted to find a way to give back. With the help of one of her patients, she determined a way to do just that.

“Personally, I know the toll that cancer takes on a family, and over the last six months, I have prayed that God would guide me in a direction to help. One of my patients suggested a toy drive for hospitalized children to ease the financial burden that comes this time of year, allowing families to focus on their childrens' care. That was a perfect fit.”

A small group pulled together the drive as a way for Dr. Holly’s patients to give back in honor of her own battle with cancer. Thanks to their work, some of Carilion’s youngest patients who are hospitalized over the holidays will have their own special celebration.

On Thursday, Dec. 23, volunteers dropped off an entire trailer of donated toys to Carilion Children’s Hospital in Roanoke.

“I am absolutely speechless and humbled by the response, support and generosity of our community. Each and every one of my patients stepped up and made this Christmas Wish a success,” said. Dr. Holly. “I love the New River Valley. It has been home to me for 22 years, and over those years I have received more love and support than I could ever repay.”

The toys will be gifted to children throughout the holidays and then some.

“We use donations like this with our pediatric patients throughout the year,” said Carli Holtzhauer, child life specialist with Carilion Children’s. “Toys like this make a huge difference for patients, allowing kids to be kids even while they’re hospitalized. Incorporating play into care hugely benefits their experience and outcomes.”

And as for Dr. Holly, she considers her Christmas wish made.

“My patients and friends have given me the best gift I could have ever asked for – the gift to help others!”